I finished design school in 2002, so this year, I’ve been in business for 20 years! Quite an accomplishment. As any entrepreneur will tell you, we bring our life experiences into our businesses, which can hurt or enhance our clients’ experiences! Since I am a bit of a Pollyanna, I like to think this concept helps me to be a better, more empathetic designer. I’m sharing 3 business lessons I’ve learned over the span of my career.
1. Being Nice is My Super Power
I was paid the highest compliment last night. A colleague I greatly admire said she wanted to be like me when she grew up. While the “when I grow up” part was in jest (we’re close to the same age), she complimented me on always being kind to others in all situations. This was a lesson instilled in me by my mother and grandmother when I was a little person! They taught by example, but also verbally encouraged me to always do unto others…
This concept has served me well in life, but also in business! Whether it is dealing with our trade vendors, shipping challenges or trades people, it is always easier and less exhausting to simply be nice.
2. Have a Deep Appreciation and Regard for What is Important to Others.
Clients are often concerned that design professionals will impose their tastes and styles on their clients. I enter clients’ homes and they often are apologizing for the state of their space. But for me, I want to honor, respect and be KIND to those people who invite me into their home. I want to hear all the stories they want to share. I want to hear about the dreams and goals. It helps us create a better space in the end!
It’s always been the basis of my business to incorporate beloved items my clients already cherish into the design plan. This is their home, after all! In my home, I have dozens of beautiful things that belonged to friends and family members that are important to me! I want no less for my clientele.
3. Anything Can Be Beautiful in the Right Setting.
It is true that everything old is new again, and never more so than in design! Whether it’s a crazy fabric or unique piece of furniture, sometimes we are pretty quick to place negative judgement on items we see.
But the truth is that in the right setting, and with well-coordinated items, almost anything can look beautiful!
I think it’s interesting to look outside the box and find beauty in all things! Sometimes it’s a client who has a challenging home or a challenging attitude. Everyone rolls a little differently and it’s important to lean into all those differences and enjoy them.
Years ago, our pastor shared a phrase (and apologies to Pastor Hutch in heaven for mis-remembering!): Love them where they lay. The sermon continued with encouraging a deep appreciation for all the little idiosyncrasies that people have, and understanding that these are what make them special and unique. I’ve never forgotten that quote. It is actually included in our PSDesign Employee Manual in our approach to our clients.
What life or business lessons have influenced you in big ways? Share them in the comments below to inspire and assist others.
Xoxo,
Pamela
